Devolution – getting a great deal for nature and people.

What is Devolution and why does it matter? 

Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are part of the Government’s Devolution Priority Programme, which will consider proposals to establish a new Mayoral Combined Authority for ‘Hampshire and the Solent’ and could see election of a new Mayor for the region in May 2026. You can find out more about the plans here. 

A Government-led public consultation seeking views on the proposals was open until 13th April.   You can view our response here:  our response to the Hampshire & Solent Devolution Consultation.

In a parallel process, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Councils are developing plans for restructuring of local government that would see the creation of new unitary authorities in place of the existing arrangement of county, city, borough and district councils.  

The creation of this new Mayoral Combined Authority will see the passing of powers and funds from central government to our local region, including in areas such as transport, adult skills, housing, economic growth, environment and climate change.  This creates a significant opportunity to make sure we get a great deal for people and for nature.   

What are we calling for?

Nature isn't a ‘nice to have’.  It is essential for our health and our prosperity and that of future generations.  Hampshire, the Isle of Wight and the Solent are home to some of the UK’s most treasured natural landscapes — including chalk streams, seagrass meadows, forests and heathlands — along with the remarkable wildlife that depends on them. These vital ecosystems allow us to breathe, drink, produce food. They protect us from floods and droughts, support our health, and underpin the entire economy. Restoring and investing in this natural capital also creates opportunities for new skills and jobs, while making our communities better places to live and work.

Now is the time to make sure we are investing in this critical infrastructure, so that wildlife and communities can really thrive.   

Devolution must lock in a nature-positive approach. This means that the forthcoming English Devolution Bill should: 

• Set out powers and ring-fenced funding to deliver Local Nature Recovery Strategies; and 

• Include a duty for Mayoral and unitary authorities to publish local targets and plans to contribute towards government’s national commitments to halt species decline, protect 30% of our land and sea by 2030 and restore our rivers to good ecological health.    

Locally, we want those driving this devolution deal to recognise the unique opportunity we have here to create a strong, nature-powered economy that we can all benefit from.  

Whilst the Government consultation has now closed, there is plenty of time to take part in conversations about the future of our area.  Mayoral elections will take part in 2026 and the new Mayor will play a key role in shaping priorities.